HOMEOWNERS
AUTO
BOAT
MOTORCYCLE
RENTERS
COMMERCIAL
UMBRELLA
HEALTHCARE
FLOOD
UBER

850-378-2500

6705 Pine Forest Rd - Suite 300
Pensacola, FL  32526
Fax : 850-807-5071

Contact your local Agent
Call : 850-378-2500 or

Boat Insurance

What does Boat Insurance cover?

Most boat policies cover physical damage to the hull, sails, machinery, furnishings, and most other equipment that is normally used on board. Most dangers are covered including vandalism, malicious mischief, and damage which results from collision or sinking.

Insurance needs differ depending on the type, age, or value of the boat or watercraft you own. Your policy will explain in detail what is covered and what is specifically excluded.

What about Liability Coverage for your boat policy?

You are also insured against liability losses. You are covered for damage you may cause to another boat, yacht, personal water craft, sailboat or dock, and for bodily injury or death to another person while operating your vessle.

Under most boat policies, the boat trailer is covered against physical loss or damage from any external cause.

What additional coverage is included on a boat policy?

You may purchase optional coverages, such as:

• Coverage for your personal property
• Coverage for your fishing equipment
• Coverage against injury to you caused by an uninsured boater

What types of boats can we help you insure?

• Bow Rider - Open bow type of boat with seating. They are best suited for use in lakes and inland waterways.
  
  
• Center Consoles - Single decked open hull boats with the operator's console (helm) in the center of the boat. Work great as fishing boats. Most are powered by outboard motors.
  
  
• Cuddy Cabin - A boat that contains a small cabin in the bow..
  
  
• Walk Around - Cross between center console and a cuddy boat. Generally used as fishing boats and they contain a small cabin.
  
  
• Ski Boats - Flat bottom, high torque boats designed to safely tow water skiers. Powered by high-horsepower engines.
  
  
• Pontoon - Relatively inexpensive, flat hulls that sit on pontoons. Commonly referred to as "party boats". Should only be used in calm inland waters.
  
  
• Jet Boats - Propelled by a jet of water ejected from the back of the craft. Come in a variety of sizes.
  
  
• Personal Watercraft (PWC) - A watercraft used for recreational purposes that you sit or stand on. Often referred to as WaveRunner, Jet Ski or Sea Doo which are actually brand names.
  
  
• Sailboats - A boat propelled partially or entirely by sails. Can be used for racing, sport or just cruising.
  
  
• Bass Boats - A small, flat bottom boat used primarily for bass fishing in inland waters. They are often equipped with swivel chairs for easy casting.
  
  
• Commercial Vessels and P&I
  
  
• Private Pleasure Craft from $50,000 to $200,000,000.
  
  
• Cargo Commercial Fishing
  
  
• Charter International Risks

Is my boat covered when it's not in the water?

It's covered if you have physical damage (comprehensive and collision) coverage.  Liability, Uninsured Motorist and Medical Payments coverages only respond when your boat is in the water.

If I am in an accident while towing my boat who pays for the
damages?

If your boat is damaged your boat policy will respond if you have physical damage (comprehensive and collision) coverage on your policy.

Simply call 850-378-2500 or complete our online quote request form.Your local GreatFlorida Boat Insurance Agent in Florida will help you find the best deal for you.

Get a Quote Online

About Boat Insurance in West Pensacola, FL

A subtropical climate with almost 1,200 miles of coastline creates the ideal conditions for boat owners in West Pensacola, FL. GreatFlorida Boat Insurance will dissipate your worries so you can relax and have safe fun on the water.

Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance West Pensacola, FL offers customized boat insurance policies to guard against unexpected damages, replacement and liability.  Whether you plan to fish, water ski or enjoy the sunset, we cover many different boats with optional coverage to reflect your lifestyle.

Boat Insurance will give you peace of mind while you are out on the water. GreatFlorida Insurance offers boat owners in West Pensacola a variety of protection from the risks of owning, operating and towing your boat.

GreatFlorida Boat Insurance provides coverage to jet skis, sailboats, yachts, fishing boats, ski boats and more. GreatFlorida Insurance carries top notch marine insurance policies to protect your vessel. Contact Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance today and our they will get to work for you with a simple, free quote.

Whether you currently own a boat, yacht, personal water craft, sailboat or are a prospective buyer, Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance West Pensacola, FL can help you find the right Boat Insurance policy at the right price.

GreatFlorida Insurance shops all the major carriers in West Pensacola, to find the best policy and the best rate. Easy, Low-Cost and Worry Free. That's the GreatFlorida Insurance promise.

Simply call 850-378-2500 or complete our online quote request form.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

9/14/2018

Florida offers unique opportunities for fishing in the fall. Cooling water temperatures can result in great bites this fall.

“In the middle of hurricane season, always make sure to keep track of the weather before you head out,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency.

As reported this week, a few storms are churning in the tropics. While none look like they are headed toward Florida, anglers need to be aware of dangerous rip currents and high seas as well as possible thunderstorms according to meteorologist at clickorlando.com.

Before you cast your line, you’ll need a fishing license, whether in local waters inland or off shore. There are exceptions for those fishing off a local pier or on a charter boat where a blanket license has you covered. To find out more about Florida fishing licenses, click the links below.

Saltwater license

Freshwater license

Popular catches in the fall in freshwater include bass, crappie and catfish.

In saltwater you can hook, red snapper, grouper, king mackerel, red fish, trout and snook. However, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has temporarily made snook and redfish catch-and-release only from the northernmost point of Anna Maria Island in Manatee County to Gordon Pass in Collier County. This was done through and Executive Order in response to the impact from red tide bloom in southwest Florida. This order is an effect until the next FWC meeting September 26-27.

However, you do not always need a boat to make a good catch. During the fall mullet run, anglers without a boat have the opportunity to catch big game fish.

“When the weather cools down and the visitors clear out, that is when the water really heats up,” says Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent boat insurance agency.

GreatFlorida Insurance can make sure you are fully prepared before you head out to trawl with premium boat insurance at affordable prices. Contact a GreatFlorida Insurance agent to make sure you have proper boat insurance and adequate coverage for all your fishing equipment.

The post What you need to know about fall fishing appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

9/6/2018

Animal related insurance claims

 Florida is known for its abundant wildlife population. Green space surrounds many of our highways, increasing the chances of an animal-auto collision.

“When driving at night, it is almost impossible to avoid a collision once an animal steps or jumps onto the roadway,” observes Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent auto insurance agency.

The U.S. Department of Transportation claims an estimated one to two million collisions between a car and large animal occur every year.

A recent study from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), analyzes the number of animal-related insurance losses for the years 2014-2017.  All animal-related claims went up 6 percent over the four-year period.

The most common animals involved in auto collisions include: deer, racoon, dog, turkey, coyote with deer being the most frequent victim. Additional animals often struck by cars in Florida include the alligator, Florida panther, black bear and birds.

“If animal related accidents are a concern for you or you frequently travel near wooded areas, you might want to check out comprehensive coverage through your car insurance policy,” recommends Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent auto insurance agency.

Consider these wildlife-auto collision statistics from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

A collision with some form of wildlife occurs on average every 39 minutes.

The average repair cost of a car-deer collision is $2,8000.

Approximately 200 motorists die every year in car-wildlife collisions.

1 out of every 17 car collisions involve wandering wildlife.

89% of all wildlife collisions occur on roads with 2 lanes.

84% of all wildlife collisions occur in good weather on dry roads.

If you unexpectedly come upon an animal in the road while driving, experts advise not swerving. Consequences could be more severe if you hit an oncoming vehicle. It is recommended to hit your brakes, honk the horn and duck low behind the dashboard.

The post To Swerve or Not to Swerve appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

8/23/2018

Good relationships between neighbors strengthen the community you live in, however conflict between neighbors can lead to serious tension, lawsuits and even violence. “Discerning between an annoyance and a true nuisance will help you decide what course of action to take,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent homeowners insurance agency.

Below are a few of the most common neighbor complaints and how to handle them graciously.

Noisy neighbors

Firing up the lawn mower at 7 am on a Saturday, a barking dog, loud music or parties can violate your peace.  Whether you live in an apartment, condo or home with a yard, noisy neighbors are unsettling. Addressing your neighbor about noise is best handled with diplomacy while keeping your cool. Dealing with the issue before it threatens your civility is recommended. If the noise continues to persist after making a request to your neighbor, check to see if your community has laws prohibiting unreasonable noise, a noise ordinance or designated quiet times. You can also contact your landlord, or neighborhood association.

“If it comes to it, reach out to law enforcement who are trained to handle enforcing noise ordinances,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent homeowners insurance agency.

Overhanging trees

Trees contribute to the beauty of nature and provide wonderful shade; however, they are also the source of hostility between neighbors. Here is the lowdown on how to handle potential tree issues. You can cut back overhanging branches but avoid pruning a tree if it will cause damage to it. Most communities have laws against excessive pruning. It is a good idea to alert your neighbor before pruning. If a tree trunk straddles property lines, you and your neighbor both own the tree, so it is best to get your neighbors permission to prune.

Consumer Reports informs, if there is a hazardous tree belonging to you or your neighbor, the local government will often step in and handle the situation or force the owner of the tree to act. You can locate the appropriate agency by contacting city hall or the county courthouse. When it comes to leaves, fruit and debris, if a tree is jointly owned, you and your neighbor share the maintenance as well as the rewards. If the tree is not commonly owned, each of you deal with the debris on your own property.

According to legal support website, LegalZoom, “If the roots are pushing onto your property, they are considered an encroachment in the same manner as fences and other physical belongings.” They go on to explain, if the roots cross your property line, the tree owner is responsible for the removal.

Property Lines

If you feel as if your neighbor is encroaching upon your space, you will find yourself in a boundary line dispute. A little research is required. Check your deed or settlement papers indicating your property lines. If you cannot locate them, try finding your plat online.  Assume, it was a mistake and show your neighbor your findings. It might be necessary for you to both have the property surveyed. Mediation is the next suggestion. If a situation gets out of hand, call the police and report trespassing.

The post Won’t You Be My Neighbor? appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

8/16/2018

Before you dig into your favorite and nourishing breakfast consider, it could contain weed killer. A recent report found dangerous amounts of the herbicide, glyphosate, the active ingredient in weed killer Roundup in several oat-based breakfast foods.

“These findings are disturbing and require our attention without causing mayhem in your pantry,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent health insurance agency.

Environmental advocacy organization, The Environmental Working Group (EWG), conducted a study of oat cereals, oatmeal, granola and snack bars. Glyphosate was found in all, but five of the 29 regular and organic products tested.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and California scientists, believe glyphosate is a carcinogen. Last week, a California jury awarded a groundskeeper $289 million in damages. He claims long-term exposure to large amounts of Monsanto’s Roundup is responsible for his terminal cancer. Monsanto, the maker of Roundup, strongly disputes the finding that glyphosate is a carcinogen.

Also, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes glyphosate as one of the most widely used agricultural pesticides in  the U. S. and claims it is, “not likely to be carcinogenic to humans.” The EPA says there is no risk to human health when used accordingly. According to EWG, more than 250 million pounds of glyphosate is sprayed on American crops annually.

“In cases like this, where different experts have opposing conclusions, you must make decisions based on your beliefs,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent health insurance agency.

Below are the results of the study.

Potentially dangerous to children

Back to Nature Classic Granola

Barbara’s Multigrain Spoonfuls, Original, Cereal

Bob’s Red Mill Steel Cut Oats

Cheerios Toasted Whole Grain Oat Cereal

Giant Instant Oatmeal Original Flavor

Great Value Original Instant Oatmeal

Kellogg’s Cracklin’ Oat Bran Cereal

Lucky Charms (without the marshmallows)

Market Pantry Instant Oatmeal, Strawberries & Cream

Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars, Oats ‘n Honey

Nature Valley Granola Protein Oats ‘n Honey

Quaker Dinosaur Eggs, Brown Sugar, Instant Oatmeal

Quaker Old Fashioned Oats

Quaker Simply Granola Oats, Honey, Raisin and Almonds

Quaker Steel Cut Oats

Umpqua Oats, Maple Pecan

Contains safe amounts of glyphosate

Back to Nature Banana Walnut Granola Clusters

Bob’s Red Mill Organic Old Fashioned Rolled Oats

Kellogg’s Nutrigrain Soft Baked Breakfast Bars, Strawberry

KIND Oats & Honey with Toasted Coconut

KIND Vanilla, Blueberry Clusters with Flax Seeds

Nature’s Path Organic Old Fashioned Organic Oats

Quaker Chewy Chocolate Chip granola bar

Whole Foods Bulk Bin conventional rolled oats

Contained no glyphosate in any tests

365 Organic Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats

Cascadian Farm Organic Harvest Berry, granola bar

Kashi Heart to Heart Organic Honey Toasted Cereal

Nature’s Path Organic Honey Almond Granola

Simple Truth Organic Instant Oatmeal, Original

The post Weed killer found in popular breakfast foods appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

8/9/2018

“Being on the water, provides a sense of calm and clarity,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent boat insurance agency.

In his book, Blue Mind, Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, marine biologist, explains that being on, in or near the water improves creativity, emotional health and relaxation. It can also heal the mind and body.

In the book, he describes the state of a “red mind” and its antidote, a “blue mind.” A red mind is characterized by stress, anxiety and fear, whereas a blue mind is described as calm, peaceful and happy. A blue mind can be achieved by being in, near, on, under or around water. Such as being on a boat. He describes to Discover Boating, that a blue mind, gives our minds a break, it helps us to disconnect from tech and connect with our thoughts and insights as well as with other people.

Research shows walking on the beach, hanging out at the lake or even taking a dip in the pool can calm you down while sparking creativity. He shares with Huffington Post some additional benefits to being around water.

Water gives our brains a rest.

Water can induce a meditative state.

Water can inspire us to be more compassionate and connected.

Exercise by or in water is good for our brains and our bodies.

“These findings explain why we feel so much joy when boating,” observes Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency.

Boat rental website, Carefree Boat Club, explains that boating allows you to create bonding experiences and enjoy memories with family and friends. They report, according to studies, boaters respond to stress or stressful situations in a manner better than non-boaters.

So, the next time you are debating that fishing trip or all-day outing at the beach, remember, it can benefit your health, body and mind.

The post Can Boating Help Us Be Our Better Selves? appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

7/17/2018

A new driver in the family is exciting. However, it can also be the source of stress. Aside from safety concerns, car insurance costs increase significantly.

Teen crash rates are the highest of any age group, making them the riskiest group on the road. Adding a teen to the family car insurance policy can sometimes double the payments.

“While car insurance can get pricey for teens, discounts are available,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance. Below are some discounts available to teen drivers to cut auto insurance costs.

Good Grades

Good student discount rewards students financially, for doing well in school. According to DMV.org, statistics show that students who get good grades are less likely to get into a car accident, making them a lower risk for car insurance companies. A Good grade discount varies among auto insurance companies, however most require the following:

The student is under 25 years old

Full-time enrollment at a high school or college/university

Maintain at least a B average (3.0 grade point average), or be on the honor roll or Dean’s List.

Show other accepted proof of good performance, if home-schooled.

Score in the upper 20 percent on one of the six standardized tests.

Some insurance companies will extend the discount for a year after a student completes school.

Driver’s Education

Safety is the top concern for parents of a teen driver. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. Driver safety courses teach new drivers rules of the road, as well as offer teen drivers savings.

Students who complete a driver training program, are eligible for a discount. DriversEd.com reports drivers can earn a discount of up to 10 percent after completing their course. Some insurance providers have special courses where students can earn over 15 percent savings.

Electronic Device Technology

Several auto insurers now offer electronic devices to monitor teen driving habits. The devices gather information such as, the number of miles driven, speed, the number of hours on the road and how often the brakes are applied hard. Drivers who meet the standards can save up to 30 percent on premiums.

“These devices are great for safety and savings,” says  Buck,  of GreatFlorida Insurance.

Distant-Student Discounts

If your student driver, resides at a school at least 100 miles from your home and only occasionally drives your vehicle, you could qualify for a discount on your auto insurance.

Car Selection

While most teens dream of receiving a brand-new car for their 16^th birthdays, the reality is, they will most likely be driving something used. A used car will save you money to insure instead of insuring a new one. Large trucks and SUV’s cost more to insure, particularly if they have a four-wheel drive option. Some car features that can save money include; anti-lock brakes (ABS), air bags, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, collision preparation systems and anti-theft devices.

 

The post Lowering a Teen Drivers Auto Insurance appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

7/12/2018

“Fishing, tourism and public health are vulnerable to algae this year in Florida”, observes Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent boat insurance company.

Red Tide

A patchy bloom of the Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, persists in Southwest Florida. You might recognize red tide on the beach. It looks like thick mats of smelly, brown, seaweed and covers beaches along Florida’s Atlantic Coast.

Red Tide is a naturally-occurring microscopic alga that has been documented along Florida’s Gulf Coast since the 1840’s and occurs nearly every year. Blooms, or higher than normal concentrations of the Florida red tide alga, Karenia brevis, frequently occur in the Gulf of Mexico, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), reports some red tide produces toxins that have harmful effects on people, fish, marine mammals and birds. In humans, the toxin can become airborne and varying levels of eye and respiratory irritation can occur, becoming more severe for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma. Even touching the bloom can cause a rash.  MOTE Marine Laboratory & Aquarium issues daily beach conditions from beaches along the Southwest coast and along the panhandle. Try checking their website before you head out for the day.

Toxic Algae Bloom

Red tide is not the only algae growing in Florida. Two years ago, some Florida waterways and beaches were afflicted by what many described as a green, slimy, rancid- smelling algae. Well…it’s back. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reports the blue-green algae also known as cyanobacteria, typically develops in nutrient-rich lakes that contain high levels of phosphorous and nitrogen. High temperatures, warm water and abundant sunlight create ideal conditions for the toxic blooms to thrive.

Lake Okeechobee, the Caloosahatchee River and St. Lucie estuary are filled with the toxic algae as it continues to spread to Cape Coral and Ft. Myers. “Just cleaning up the water will not help, points out Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency. Both red tide and the blue-green algae are exacerbated by fertilizers and other pollution fed by runoff from the surrounding land.

The blue-green algae can cause skin rashes, nausea, respiratory issues, cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Long term conditions include; liver, kidney and nervous system damage.

Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency this week for seven counties around the lake to give state environmental and tourism agencies more resources to respond to problems caused by the algae. The order also authorizes flushing water south of the lake instead of down the rivers that run to the coasts.

The post Algae Plagues Florida Beaches and Waterways appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.